Five National Trust properties within an hour of Leeds - sign up for membership to make big savings
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From a UNESCO World Heritage Site to historic halls and spectacular gardens, these five National Trust attractions are all less than an hour from Leeds – and membership could save you hundreds of pounds.
Yorkshire is home to around 24 National Trust attractions with everything from medieval abbey ruins and grand country houses to landscaped gardens and family-friendly parkland.
And if you're planning more than a couple of visits this year, National Trust membership could prove excellent value - details and links below or CLICK HERE.
So let’s explore five must-visit National Trust properties within an hour of Leeds:
Address: Fountains, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY
Distance from Leeds: 26.5 miles
Drive time: Around 50 minutes
Arguably Yorkshire's most spectacular National Trust attraction, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden combines one of Britain's largest monastic ruins with an elegant Georgian water garden. The UNESCO World Heritage Site features lakes, follies, ancient woodland and a deer park, creating a day out that blends history, nature and breathtaking scenery. It's one of the Trust's most visited properties anywhere in the country.
2. BENINGBROUGH
Distance from Leeds: 31 miles
Drive time: Around 51 minutes
This magnificent baroque mansion near York is renowned for its impressive art collections, changing exhibitions and beautifully restored gardens. Families can enjoy adventure play areas and open green spaces, while garden lovers will appreciate the Mediterranean Garden, herbaceous borders and productive walled garden. The house itself offers a fascinating glimpse into more than 300 years of Yorkshire history.
3. NOSTELL
Address: Doncaster Road, Nostell, near Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF4 1QE
Distance from Leeds: 19.7 miles
Drive time: Around 30 minutes
One of the closest National Trust properties to Leeds, Nostell combines a magnificent Georgian mansion with 300 acres of parkland, lakes and gardens. Inside are some of Britain's finest Chippendale furniture and interiors designed by celebrated architect Robert Adam. Outside, visitors can enjoy family walks, adventure play areas and seasonal displays throughout the year.
Address: Park Drive, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S75 3EN
Distance from Leeds: 24.6 miles
Drive time: Around 32 minutes
South Yorkshire's only Grade I-registered landscape offers visitors a fascinating blend of formal gardens, woodland walks, monuments and hidden follies. Created as part of an 18th-century aristocratic rivalry, the estate was once described as "the finest garden in England". Today it remains one of Yorkshire's most impressive green spaces and a fantastic destination for a relaxing day outdoors.
Address: Bradford Road, Riddlesden, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD20 5EL
Distance from Leeds: 17 miles
Drive time: Around 37 minutes
This charming 17th-century manor house is one of West Yorkshire's hidden gems. Visitors can explore the historic hall, impressive tithe barn and intimate gardens, while families can enjoy outdoor play spaces and seasonal events. Smaller than some of Yorkshire's grander estates, East Riddlesden Hall offers a more peaceful and personal National Trust experience.
Is National Trust membership wortg it?
If you're planning several visits throughout the year, membershiphttps://fave.co/4b3qk6y can quickly pay for itself. Members enjoy free entry to more than 500 National Trust places nationwide, free parking at most National Trust car parks, a National Trust Handbook and a subscription to National Trust Magazine.
Current membership options include:
- Joint Membership (two adults, aged 26+, living at the same address). £168 a year or £14 per month.
- Family Membership (aged 18+) living at the same address and all children or grandchildren (17 or under) named on the membership. Under 5s go free. £176.40 a year or £14.70 per month.
- Single-Parent Family Membership : (aged 18+) and all children or grandchildren (17 or under) named on the membership. Under 5s go free. £109.20 a year or £9.10 per month.
As an added bonus, new memberships paid annually by Direct Debit currently include a guest pass, allowing members to bring along a friend or family member on a visit.
With more than 500 National Trust places to explore across the UK – including abbeys, castles, gardens, coastlines and countryside – membership can be a cost-effective way to enjoy days out throughout the year.
To help families enjoy days out for less this summer, the Government has introduced a temporary reduction in VAT, running from 25 June to 1 September 2026. This means the admission price you pay at the till may be less than advertised.